The Oilers continue to read my blogs
Last week I wrote that the Edmonton Oilers needed to consider options like Brandon Pirri this off-season; players who could produce at the NHL level while not costing the team much in terms of actual dollars.
Last week the Oilers came to agreement with coveted Swedish forward Joakim Nygard. The 26 year old was the second most productive forward in the Swedish Hockey League, a notoriously difficult league to score in. Aside from producing crooked numbers, what made Nygard so appealing to reportedly 20 NHL teams is his blinding speed. Nygard may only be a third or fourth line forward for the Oilers next season, but with speed and a proven ability to produce, the opportunity currently exists for him to earn a spot with McDavid.
Now it appears as though Edmonton is eyeing more help from overseas in the form of Frederik Tiffels (courtesy of Kurt Leavins of the Edmonton Journal). Tiffels, a 24 year old left winger most recently scored 2 goals and put up four points in 8 games in the IHHF Championship for Germany.
Highlights: Frederik Tiffels had the game winning goal for @deb_teams in a 2-1 win over @DKIshockey #IIHFWorlds
— IIHF (@IIHFHockey) May 12, 2019
More highlights > https://t.co/LZ0SQWQwmc pic.twitter.com/fwOD53rdCm
First let’s talk about the obvious connection; Leon Draisaitl. Draisaitl and Tiffels have known each other for years, going through the German programs together. Throughout the World Championship, the two countrymen spent plenty of time playing together and connected for a number of points. Whether the idea of bringing Tiffels to the Oilers came from Draisaitl or not, you can certainly bet #29 will be a factor in bringing him over.
As will be the case with Nygard, none of these players should be expected to come in and score 25 goals and put up 50+ points, but they will be asked to add in the range of 10-15 goals and improve the depth scoring the Oilers desperately need.
There is no official word yet with Tiffels, but should he be signed by Edmonton he will compete with the likes of Nygard, Khaira, and others for spots in the middle six and worst case he will provide more depth for the AHL team. A win win for the Oilers.